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Thousands of pounds of specialist tack stolen from RDA centre
16 March, 2009
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A Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) centre in Bolton is struggling to remain open after thousands of pounds worth of tack was stolen last week.
Miller's Nook Riding School in Lostock Lane, Westhoughton was targeted by thieves overnight last Monday (9 March).
The centre, which has 21 horses and ponies, caters for about 90 riders a week — who could miss out on vital therapy if the centre shuts.
Yard manger Bradley Beardmore told H&H: "They took all our tack —they literally left nothing. We don't know exactly how much it was worth yet but it must have been tens of thousands of pounds."
Twenty-four specially designed saddles as well as bridles and rugs were taken from Miller's Nooks, which was uninsured due to lack of finances.
"We're trying to keep going as best as we can," added Mr Beardmore. "People have kindly given us pieces of equipment to use — we're now relying totally on donations."
The centre, which is owned by Katherine Miller, has been open about two years. It was also broken into last April when £10,000 of equipment was taken.
A spokeman for Greater Manchester Police told H&H: "Police are investigating a burglary at a horse riding school for the disabled.
"The break in happened sometime between 5.15pm on Monday 9 March and 8am on Tuesday 10 March at the Millers Nook Riding School. Inquiries are ongoing."
Anyone with information should contact the police on: 0161 872 5050
Last month an RDA centre in Somerset was broken into. The Conquest Centre in Taunton had £50,000 worth of tack taken.
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